Mobile Caravan Gas Repairs: What Licenses Do You Need in Australia?
Caravans have become a cornerstone of Australian travel, offering the freedom to explore the open road with the comfort of home. From cooking meals to heating water, gas systems are essential for a safe and enjoyable journey.
But what happens when something goes wrong with your caravan’s gas setup?
Unlike minor DIY fixes such as patching upholstery or replacing a tap, caravan gas repairs fall into a heavily regulated area.
Gas leaks, faulty appliances, or poor installations can lead to devastating consequences from fire hazards to carbon monoxide poisoning. That’s why strict licensing rules govern who can legally install, service, or repair gas systems in caravans.
If you’re considering hiring a mobile caravan gas repair service, or even setting up your own business, here’s everything you need to know about the licenses, certifications, and standards required.
Required Licenses & Certifications
1. LP Gas Licence
The foundation of caravan gas work is the LP Gas Licence. This license is mandatory for anyone working on an LPG system within a caravan, camper trailer, or recreational vehicle. It covers:
- Installation of new systems and appliances
- Maintenance and servicing of existing equipment
- Repairs, including pipework, regulators, and fittings
- Replacement of appliances, such as stoves, heaters, or hot water units
Most licensed plumbers and gas fitters hold this license, but caravan owners should never assume. Always ask to see proof of your repairer’s credentials before allowing work to begin. Hiring an unlicensed worker not only puts your safety at risk but can also void insurance claims if something goes wrong.
2. Gas System Compliance Certificate
Once any gas-related work has been completed, a Gas System Compliance Certificate must be issued. This is more than just a piece of paper: it’s a legal requirement that confirms the gas installation complies with safety regulations.
Situations where a compliance certificate is required include:
- Registering a caravan: Without it, your vehicle may not meet road authority requirements.
- Selling a caravan: A certificate issued within the last three months is mandatory to complete the sale.
- After alterations or repairs: Whether adding a new appliance or modifying the original system, certification is essential.
This certificate provides peace of mind for both owners and future buyers. It’s a safeguard that ensures the caravan meets legal and safety standards.
Petroleum and Gas Inspectorate Guideline (QLD, 2019)
In Queensland, additional clarity is provided by the Petroleum and Gas Inspectorate’s 2019 Guideline for Gas Safety and Compliance in Caravans, Camper Trailers, and Recreational Vehicles. This resource, published by the Queensland Government, reinforces the importance of compliance while offering practical safety direction.
The guideline highlights:
- Use of approved appliances designed specifically for caravans.
- Adequate ventilation to reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Correct storage and securing of cylinders during travel.
- Mandatory compliance certificates after all work is completed.
While specific to Queensland, the principles outlined in this guideline mirror national standards and can serve as a benchmark for safe practice across Australia. Caravan owners outside QLD can still benefit from reviewing its recommendations when checking their own systems or hiring repair services.
Additional Considerations
1. Electrical Safety
Many modern caravans integrate gas with electrical systems, such as solar panels, 240V hookups, or dual-fuel appliances. In such cases, gas repairs may need to be coordinated with a licensed electrician. It’s illegal — and dangerous — for a gas fitter without electrical qualifications to tamper with wiring or electrical connections.
2. Mobile Business Registration
If you’re setting up a mobile caravan gas repair service, licensing is only one piece of the puzzle. You’ll also need to ensure your business is properly registered and insured. This typically includes:
- An ABN or ACN for trading
- Public liability insurance, protecting you in case of accidents or damages
- Vehicle insurance for your mobile service unit
- Compliance with state-based small business requirements
Being mobile adds convenience for customers, but it also means carrying the right tools, safety equipment, and documentation on-site at all times.
3. State-Specific Rules
While national standards apply across the board, individual states and territories may have extra licensing or compliance requirements. For example:
In Queensland, caravan gas work is regulated under the Petroleum and Gas (Production and Safety) Act 2004, supported by the 2019 Gas Safety Guideline.
Other states may have different regulators or inspection processes, so always check with the relevant authority.
Final Takeaways
Gas systems are the heartbeat of a safe and functional caravan. But with that convenience comes responsibility. Whether you’re an owner booking repairs or a tradesperson starting a mobile service, the rules are clear:
Only licensed professionals with an LP Gas Licence can legally carry out caravan gas work.
A Gas System Compliance Certificate is required after every repair, alteration, or installation.
All work must meet the strict safety guidelines of AS/NZS 5601.2.
In Queensland, the Petroleum and Gas Inspectorate Guideline (2019) provides a clear compliance roadmap. This is a useful reference point for all caravan owners nationwide.
Cutting corners with gas safety isn’t worth the risk. By ensuring the right licenses and certificates are in place, caravan owners can travel with confidence, knowing their systems are both safe and legal.
References
Department of Natural Resources, Mines and Energy. (2019). Guideline for gas safety and compliance: Caravans, camper trailers and recreational vehicles. Queensland Government, Petroleum and Gas Inspectorate. Retrieved from https://www.rshq.qld.gov.au/
Standards Australia & Standards New Zealand. (2013). AS/NZS 5601.2: Gas installations – LP Gas installations in caravans and boats for non-propulsive purposes. Standards Australia Limited / Standards New Zealand.
Queensland Government. (2004). Petroleum and Gas (Production and Safety) Act 2004. Office of the Queensland Parliamentary Counsel. Retrieved from https://www.legislation.qld.gov.au/
